Pre-match quotes: Sudan vs Nigeria

Pre-match quotes: Sudan vs Nigeria

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30 January 2018 05:53

Burhaneldin Tia (Assistant Coach, Sudan)

We have intensified preparations for the semi-final clash against Nigeria, right after beating Zambia at the quarters. We didn’t beat Zambia due to luck, but because we were better prepared and better team on the day.

Nigeria is one of the giants of African football and it is always a pleasure to play against such a team. It will be a different game from the previous matches, but we will do our best to emerge victors and advance to the final.

All the players are in good condition. The positive news is that we have a team of young players, who play collectively and are prepared to go all out to achieve the expected result.

Mohamed Taher (Captain, Sudan)

We are determined to carry on with our impressive run at the tournament so far. Against Nigeria will be difficult, and for such games, you have to physically and psychologically ready. We are not under any form of pressure. However, we are determined to prove to all that we are not at the semi-finals by chance.

Salisu Yusif (Head Coach, Nigeria)

It has been a long journey from the qualifiers, and now we’re in the semis. We are ready to do the job. It is such a great feeling to be in the semis. We are focused and will work hard to reach the final. We made three changes to the last game due to injuries, and

some players have been ruled out for Sudan game. Sunday Faleye is out, and we are still assessing Orji Kalu and Eneji Moses.

We have done well in the tournament so far; played foyur games, score six and conceded two.

My attackers have done well in this tournament and their goals have brought us thus far. The most important is not how many goals you score, but the goal that push the team on. We have respect for Sudan, and for them to holds Morocco (tipped as favourites) to a 0-0 draw, means they are a good side. This means we have to work harder. For any team to reach the semis of a major tournament, it means they have done well.

All four teams at the semis have the potential to win the trophy, it depends on how you make the best of your advantage.

Ikechukwu Ezenwa (Captain, Nigeria)

It’s good to be in the semis, and we (as players) know the importance of reaching such a stage in a major competition. We have to put our mind set together to make our country proud. I believe with determination and focus, we can do our best against Sudan.

Regarding match bonuses, we have been paid. The bonus is in our pockets , and we’re hoping to get more.

We are hoping for a victory against Sudan to reach the final. If matters arise and call for a repeat of my Man-of-the-Match performance against Angola (at the quarter final stage); I will be around to carry the team along.